Metropolitan Beach – Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township, Michigan
About Metropolitan Beach – Lake St. Clair Metropark, Harrison Township, Michigan
Introduction
Located on the tranquil shores of Lake St. Clair, Metropolitan Beach – Lake St. Clair Metropark, referred to locally as simply “Metro Beach,” serves as a quintessential meeting point of nature and leisure for both residents and visitors of Harrison Township, Michigan. Its abundant attractions, including hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and stunning vistas of the scenic lake have been charming visitors for over six decades. To fully appreciate this iconic metropark, it’s important to delve into its fascinating history while exploring the key attractions that define the landscape.
The History of Metropolitan Beach – Lake St. Clair Metropark
The history of Metropolitan Beach – Lake St. Clair Metropark dates back to the early 1950s when the recreational value of the Lake St. Clair shoreline started gaining recognition. Born out of a vision to create a public space where locals could immerse in outdoor recreational activities, the park was officially opened to the public in 1950. The park initially comprised a simple swimming beach and a handful of picnic shelters. However, it quickly grew in popularity, necessitating ongoing expansions and enhancements over the years.
The name “Metro Beach Metropark” was officially changed to “Lake St. Clair Metropark” in 2013, to reflect its location on the shores of Lake St. Clair and to reinforce its identity within the Huron-Clinton Metroparks system. Nevertheless, its previous name is still commonly used by locals. Today, the park boasts a total of 770 acres and attracts countless visitors throughout the year who come to enjoy its wide array of facilities and amenities.
Main Attractions of Lake St. Clair Metropark
Known for its multifaceted appeal, Lake St. Clair Metropark presents an assortment of recreational avenues set in tranquil natural surroundings. One of the main draws for visitors is undoubtedly the 1,000-foot-long sandy beach that frames the clear waters of Lake St. Clair. During the summer season, the beach becomes a hive of activity, offering a range of watersports to indulge in, from swimming to boating and fishing.
Those who prefer to stay dry can still relish the picturesque views of the lake from the Chesterfield Township Greenway Trail. This five-mile paved trail meanders through splendid settings of woodland, marshes, and lagoons, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Not forgetting the little ones, the park also houses an extraordinary 18,000-square-foot Playscape, a large playground area providing a variety of play equipment suitable for children of all ages. Alongside these recreational options, the park also houses an 18-hole regulation golf course, a Par-3 course, and a mini-golf course curiously fashioned from a former missile base. For bird watchers, this area is particularly diverse, as it also provides a prominent rest stop for migratory birds, a feature adequately accentuated by a Nature Center that runs seasonal birding programs.
Wrap-up and Conclusion
To round off a perfect day, the park also offers several picnic shelters equipped with barbecue grills, ideal for family gatherings amidst the verdant surroundings. In the winter months, the park undergoes a magical transformation, with cross-country skiing and ice-fishing becoming the order of the day.
No matter the season, Metropolitan Beach – Lake St. Clair Metropark stands as a testament to the perfect blend of leisure and nature. Its rich history is woven into the very fabric of the community it serves, and its comprehensive range of recreational facilities ensures a rewarding experience for all ages. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, a day spent at Lake St. Clair Metropark is certain to be memorable.